education sessions
How to Handle Conflicts With Empathy and Strengthen Your Team in the Process
Room: Arboretum 1
Saturday, October 22
9:00am - 10:00am
In this session, participants will gain skills to manage conflicts within their teams more effectively by deploying their natural empathy and taking a proactive approach to conflict resolution. Together, participants will explore the signs/signals of burgeoning conflicts within teams and define internal and external conflicts and the need to approach both differently. Examining their own behaviors, leaders will learn to assess their own approaches to conflict and the advantages and disadvantages of each approach.
Speakers
Lauri Lumm, MA
Advancement Resources - Vice President and Senior Facilitator
A seasoned facilitator, Lauri has extensive experience working with participants of diverse backgrounds. She is passionate about helping development professionals and other associates broaden their perspectives and hone their skills in order to achieve breakthrough success in fundraising. With a background in coaching and performance management, Lauri has a proven track record in facilitating team-building, conflict management, leadership, strategic planning, and other professional development courses to academic institutions and non-profit organizations. Lauri holds a master’s degree in adult learning and organizational performance.Why Bother: Leadership Starts Within
Room: Arboretum 4
Saturday, October 22
9:00am - 10:00am
Tired of feeling burnt out? Ready to apply some simple tools to transform yourself and your team? Join Why Bother: Leadership Starts Within for a no frills conversation from a recovering workaholic turned passion igniter. The time is now - hope you're up for the challenge.
Speakers
Christian Murphy, CFRE, MPA
Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta
Christian Murphy harnesses more than a decade of fundraising experience to support women and girls in our community through the power of dynamic relationships. She is the past president for the AFP, Greater Atlanta as well as a volunteer for the Junior League of Atlanta and Twelve Days of Christmas, Atlanta Chapter. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Spelman and her MPA from Georgia State University. Christian, her husband, their two children and dog reside in Georgia.Shift Happens: How Gratitude Will Improve Your Fundraising and Your Life
Room: Regency Ballroom
Saturday, October 22
9:00am - 10:00am
Do you want to sleep better, be more active and even feel happier, not to mention improve your fundraising in the process? Well, "Shift Happens" with gratitude. Learn how gratitude not only helps us feel good, but also do good and the powerful transformative ripple effect it carries through intentional, persistent practice.
Speakers
Clarissa Reis, CFRE
Fort Wayne Ballet - Chief Development Officer
With a background in psychology, Clarissa seeks to positively influence and elevate other mission-focused fundraising professionals, acting as a connector, sharing innovative strategies, adaptive, forward-thinking leadership, coupled with an ever-growing resource library, offering necessary tools to achieve short- and long-term goals. Ever the lifelong learner, Clarissa is a graduate of the YLNI Leadership Institute, Foellinger Rising Leaders, IU Lilly Family School of Philanthropy’s Certificate(s) in Current Affair Fundraising and Fund Raising Management (CFRM), achieving her CFRE in less than five years, and Chamberlain Scholar. Clarissa currently serves as Northeast Indiana Chapter President and Chief Development Officer of Fort Wayne Ballet.Self-care and Wellbeing as a Leadership Practice
Room: Cottonwood
Saturday, October 22
9:00am - 10:00am
Self-Care and Wellbeing are often seen as “something extra” we can do when in fact we know that self-care is an essential component of leadership. What once was thought to be “too woo-woo,” is now understood to be an antidote to burnout. This interactive session will focus on the practical application of self-care while focusing on: mindfulness, “habit stacking,” and self-compassion.
Speakers
Tanya Odom, Ed.M.
Leadership 2.0: Discovering Your Authentic Leadership Style
Room: Imperial Ballroom West
Saturday, October 22
9:00am - 10:00am
Leadership is not someone else's job. As a development professional you hold the keys to success for your organization and for your career. Come explore who you are as a nonprofit leader and what you aim to contribute to the world through an interactive discussion that will challenge your ethical boundaries, push you to consider your "non-negotiables" and ultimately claim your authentic leadership style.
Speakers
Bret Heinrich, CFRE
Wings of Hope - President and CEO
Bret Heinrich is CEO of Wings of Hope, an organization twice nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize that saves and changes lives through the power of aviation. He serves as Vice Chair, Professional Development on the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Global Board of Directors, is an AFP St. Louis Past-President, and has served on numerous boards. He teaches leadership at Washington University, Webster University and at the Southern University Valdry Center for Philanthropy. Bret obtained a BA from Eureka College, an MFA from Western Illinois University, and earned his CFRE credential in 2005. He is also an ordained minister.Fostering a Culture of Gender Inclusion in Fundraising and Nonprofit Spaces
Room: Window Box
Saturday, October 22
9:00am - 10:00am
Women account for 73% of the nonprofit workforce yet only 45% of nonprofit CEOs are female and just 21% are CEOs of $25M+ organizations. The data is less equitable for women of color as 7.5% of all executive staff and 14% of boards are women of color. Until we understand how gender bias appears in nonprofit and fundraising spaces, the power dynamics at play, we cannot begin to change the impact of gender exclusion.
Speakers
Rachel Branaman, MA
Talem Consulting - Principal
Rachel is the principal consultant of Talem Consulting, a national, woman-owned, full-service DEIJ consulting firm established in 2011 focused on ensuring organizations have the tools they need to build capacity, fundraise, and dismantle systems of inequity. She has worked in fundraising/development roles at Dallas Black Dance Theatre, Dallas Symphony Orchestra, Jewish Community Center of Dallas, Dallas Heritage Village, and Dallas Children's Museum as well as serving in the U.S. Peace Corps in Namibia before returning to Texas to serve as executive director for Alley’s House, providing direct services to teen mothers.How to Deal with Sexual Harassment in the Fundraising Profession
Room: Arboretum 1
Saturday, October 22
10:15am - 11:15am
Sexual harassment is a problem that many fundraisers face. This workshop focuses on how to address sexual harassment at the individual, relational, organizational, and cultural levels. We will discuss a sexual harassment case scenario and then debrief on how to replicate such a session in your own organization or chapter.
Speakers
Erynn Beaton, PhD, MBA
The Ohio State University
Dr. Erynn Beaton is an Assistant Professor in the John Glenn College of Public Affairs at The Ohio State University where she teaches courses on nonprofit management. In her research she studies the ways in which the nonprofit sector and its organizations combat, reflect, and sometimes reproduce structural inequalities. Beaton earned her doctorate at the University of Massachusetts Boston in the business school’s program on Organizations & Social Change. In a previous career she worked in marketing and brand management. She currently serves on the Ohio Attorney General’s Charitable Advisory Council and is the doting mother to a 3-year old.More than a Seat at the Table: Engaging Marginalized Communities in Program Design and Implementation
Room: Arboretum 4
Saturday, October 22
10:15am - 11:15am
You’re applying for a grant, and it’s a perfect match. And then they ask, “How is your nonprofit centering community voices?” What does this question mean, and why is it important? Using real-life examples, we will examine simple strategies nonprofits can use to authentically engage marginalized communities and put them in the driver’s seat during project planning, implementation, and evaluation. How you respond and follow through on this commitment, will determine your nonprofit’s fundraising success.
Speakers
Dondra Ward Uzoka, MS, GPC
Sidnae Global Research - President and CEO
Dondra Ward Uzoka, CEO of Sidnae Global Research, has a passion for supporting organizations that enact social change and strengthen neighborhoods. Specializing in government grants and program design, she has helped nonprofits win $6M+ in competitive grant awards. As a trainer, she loves to work with groups of mixed experience levels. Prior to starting SGR, Dondra worked at the US Dept. of Health and Human Services and US Environmental Protection Agency. Dondra has earned a M.S. in Biotechnology, a Graduate Certificate in Public Health Information Systems, a Grant Professional Certified credential, and she is a Grant Professionals Association Approved Trainer.Liberating Your Pay
Room: Regency Ballroom
Saturday, October 22
10:15am - 11:15am
In our session, we will empower new fundraisers with the framework they need to self-advocate for more equitable pay. Using these tools, fundraisers can expect to charge their experienced team in focusing on the specifics of their mission, not the basics of the fundraising profession itself.
Speakers
Suhailah Waheed, BA
Giving Geeks LLC. - Giving Geeks, LLC.
A self-defined “giving geek,” Suhailah works to connect supporters of inclusive community advancements to the technology and operational processes necessary to thrive, no matter the size of the organization. Suhailah believes everyone deserves optimal support in fulfilling their goals toward social impact. An organized and talented campaign planner, she excels at development operations and helping organizations acquire and retain donors.Tim Sarrantonio, MA
Neon One - Director of Corporate Brand
Tim Sarrantonio is a team member at Neon One and has more than 10 years of experience working for and volunteering with nonprofits.Tim has raised over $3 million for various causes, engaged and enhanced databases of all sizes, procured multiple successful grants, and formulated engaging communications and fundraising campaigns for several nonprofits. He has presented at international conferences and is a TEDx speaker on technology and philanthropy. He volunteers heavily in his community around Niskayuna, NY.Speak Like a Leader: The Secret Language of Leaders
Room: Cottonwood
Saturday, October 22
10:15am - 11:15am
All leaders know one skill above all others determines their success. It is communication. This session will give you the language of leaders. What works and what does not. You will learn how to speak with authority and kindness to accomplish goals while also empowering employees. We will reveal some language that sounds leader-like that really erodes confidence in us. You will leave with practical examples and new ideas. Speak and communicate with confidence.
Speakers
Wayne Olson, JD
Intermountain Healthcare Foundation - Gift Planning Officer
Wayne Olson is a veteran fundraiser and leader of nonprofits. He has worked with donors to raise hundreds of millions of dollars. His specialty is planned giving, but he has worked or led teams in all areas of the profession. Currently, he heads planned giving for one of the largest and greatest healthcare systems in the world. He is the author of six books, and an internationally-known speaker on fundraising, leadership and donor relations.The Big Secret to Public Policy & Lobbying: Every Fundraiser is a Natural Advocate
Room: Imperial Ballroom West
Saturday, October 22
10:15am - 11:15am
Every fundraiser is a natural lobbyist and advocate because the skills involved are EXACTLY the same as fundraising. This session, led by AFP public policy volunteer leaders, will open up a new avenue of leadership—public policy and advocacy—highlight key legislative issues and help fundraisers bring their fundraising skills to bear on all levels of government.
Speakers
Adrienne Longenecker, CFRE
Colorado River Alliance - Executive Director
Adrienne Longenecker, a certified fundraising executive, has led an impressive career as a creative problem solver, visionary executive, and meaningful relationship steward in the nonprofit and for-profit fields. Serving as the Executive Director at Colorado River Alliance, Adrienne drives the organization’s strategic growth and partnership development, and oversees the talented and dedicated staff team. A passionate community servant, Adrienne has enjoyed serving as a board member for organizations such as Leadership Austin, and Sharir+Bustamante Danceworks. Adrienne currently volunteers as Vice Chair of External Relations for the Board of Directors of the Global Association of Fundraising Professionals.Lisa Chmiola, CFRE, MS
Angela Young, CFRE
Nancy Brown, CFRE, MS
Winona Community Foundation - President/CEO
Nancy M. Brown, CFRE, has been working in the nonprofit sector for twenty-seven years with experience in higher education and healthcare fundraising and charitable estate planning prior to assuming her current role as president/CEO of the Winona Community Foundation in Winona, Minnesota. Brown is the current chair of AFP’s Political Action Committee (PAC) and is a member of the Finance Committee. Brown has master’s degree in nonprofit administration from the University of Notre Dame and a bachelor’s in journalism from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.Culture Shift: Small Changes That Make a Big Difference in Workplace Culture
Room: Arboretum 1
Saturday, October 22
12:45pm - 1:45pm
This workshop will discuss the importance of workplace culture and how the right shifts can help grow and retain employees. Culture shifts can strengthen teams, empower leaders, and carry an organization forward for future years. Creating a collaborative and uplifting workplace culture can help employees feel heard, acknowledged, and understood. Deborah will leave the audience with immediate action items that can be implemented right away for positive change.
Speakers
Deborah Marshall, MA
American Fundraising Foundation (AmFund) - Chief Operating Officer and Senior Vice President
Deborah K Marshall is an internationally renowned facilitator who thrives on strategizing with leadership across the nonprofit sector. Deborah has a vast background holding significant executive roles in real estate development, healthcare, public relations, and currently as the Chief Operating Officer and Sr. Vice President of the American Fundraising Foundation. She was even recently recognized as 2020’s Fundraiser of the Year by Nonprofit Pro. Deborah is a motivating and inspiring speaker for any size audience.From Silos to Collaboration: Grant Management for Team Building
Room: Arboretum 4
Saturday, October 22
12:45pm - 1:45pm
Feeling siloed within your organization? Do departments rarely communicate, leaving you feeling lost in what's happening across the hall or from your remote office? This session will crack the code on building trusting and transparent relationships that break down silos, particularly when it comes to grant management. As a social worker and granter writer, this speaker brings unique perspective on engaging key internal stakeholders to elevate teams for greater impact.
Speakers
Kate Greene, MSW
Jewish Federations of North America - Director, Resiliency Roundtable
Kate Greene is a licensed social worker with a sincere commitment to holistic, community-based nonprofits. Her passion for social work, paired with her strengths in writing and public speaking, have allowed her to facilitate programs, write grants, and build strong community partnerships. Kate’s professional track record of advancing strategy, equity, and coordination of care spans work with children, families, educators, and foundations. Kate brings experience in mentorship, ongoing impact evaluation, community organizing, social justice education, and advocating for best practices in caring for clients and communities. Kate received a BASW from Rutgers and an MSW from NYU.It’s Time To Elevate
Room: Regency Ballroom
Saturday, October 22
12:45pm - 1:45pm
Do you want to lead people at your work or in your community? Are you seeking a promotion and wondering how to prepare for your next opportunity? This session is geared for any professional who is looking to grow and elevate professionally. Learn key strategies that will help you own your power and hold space with confidence.
Speakers
Lereca Monik, Master Public Administration
How to Hire Authentic Leaders to do Transformational Work
Room: Imperial Ballroom West
Saturday, October 22
12:45pm - 1:45pm
There is a dissonance that exists between transformational change needed in struggling communities and the transactional work often required. After interviewing 20 nonprofit executives and 6 foundation staff, Catherine will share what would happen if you had an organization built with authentic leaders engaged in transformational relationships. Teams equipped to build relationships both inside with program participants and outside your organization with donors to create transformational change together.
Speakers
Catherine Draeger-Pederson, MA, PhD
Loving Venti, LLC. - CEO & Nonprofit Consultant
Catherine (Draeger) Pederson, Ph.D. is a relational leader, strategic thinker, and strength-based leader who brings 17 years of executive nonprofit experience into her role as the CEO of Loving Venti Consulting Practice. She has had experience with various small-to-medium sized nonprofits as the Executive Director of the Wisconsin Inmate Education Association, Friedens Food Pantry Network, Shielded Hearts (founder), and as an adjunct lecturer at UW-Milwaukee in nonprofit studies. Recipient of numerous awards, including the Ten Outstanding Young America's (TOYA) award from the United States Jaycees. She earned her Ph.D. in Leadership, Learning, and Service from Cardinal Stritch University."CANCELLED" Combat Leadership Lessons for Fundraising Professionals
Room: Cottonwood
Saturday, October 22
12:45pm - 1:45pm
Even on the best of days, fundraising can feel like a battle. The good news is there are proven ways that war-weary fundraising professionals can find renewal and resilience, even under duress. In this interactive presentation, two-time Iraq combat veteran and fundraising expert Derik Timmerman will share his practical methods for standing strong in fundraising and in life.
Speakers
Derik Timmerman, CFRE, PhD
